Motorcycle Sport

Kawasaki have continued to work hard to bring further improvements to their KX250F for 2017. While focused on motocross, the KX250F has been long used by both pro and amateur riders in off road racing and regarded by many as a solid base for woods riding. In the EnduroGP World Championship, Italian rising newcomer Gianluca Martini currently sits third overall in the Enduro 1 classification. Since jumping on Kawasaki for 2016, Martini's been very impressive, already claiming two podium results, proving the KXF’s worth on the world stage.

Building on the success of its previous models, the latest quarter litre machine in the KXF line boasts some mouth-watering stand-out features. For 2017 updates include greater power, 1.7kg weight saving plus many technical, engineering and styling updates that include “in-mould” graphics. Now featuring downdraft style intake routing, the dual injector configuration has led to even greater engine and chassis performance for 2017. With more cylinder filling efficiency thanks to a better approach for the intake air, urge is increased in the low-mid range leading to improved response and quicker acceleration.

Featuring an even lighter design for the bridge-box bottom piston, the power unit now also boasts an offset cylinder arrangement for increased mechanical efficiency. For 2017, the KX250F increases its reliability with a change to plateau cylinder honing and journal type bearings for the big-end of the connecting rod. The honing technique improves cylinder wall surface finish and allows a build up of lubricant to improve lubrication and reduce friction. And using journal instead of needle roller bearings on the big end is part of an overall philosophy aimed at further reducing mechanical losses. Engine weight savings total 0.8kg while the chassis group saves nearly 1kg on the new machine. The engine mapping features 3 “plug and play” options as standard. The Type 2 Showa Separate Function front fork and Uni-Trak rear suspension components boast revised settings, smooth action and improved ride feel. Narrower by 6mm, the new frame weighs 90g less than the current model thanks to a redesigned down tube while new swing arm dimension features a weight reduction of 190g.